Founded in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Beacon of Hope provides a model for recovery in neighborhoods devastated by disaster. Encouraging civic action, fostering repopulation, providing information and resources is the foundation on which we build and grow. Beacon of Hope empowers residents to facilitate their own recovery while providing a hub of resident driven activities and a safe environment to create the synergy essential for restoring viable neighborhoods and improving the overall quality of life for residents.

In New Orleans, Beacon of Hope Resource Center helped repopulate and redevelop neighborhoods affected by Hurricane Katrina through 25 Satellite Beacons and served more than 31,000 households in 19 New Orleans’ neighborhoods. These Beacons have engaged more than 750 resident volunteers to participate in neighborhood teams. The Beacons also provided neighborhood residents with volunteers, and the resources necessary to rebuild.

Since inception, Beacon of Hope's Centers have hosted more than 30,000 volunteers from around the world. These volunteers have assisted 1,700 residents with light rebuilding projects, cleared thousands of vacant and overgrown lots, restored 10 playgrounds, and replanted over 25 miles of public green space. These services have made our neighborhoods sustainable and more inviting to new and returning residents and businesses.

Following Hurricane Katrina, Denise and Doug Thornton opened their partially rebuilt home as a respite for their weary neighbors who were facing the rebuilding process without help.

Beacon of Hope Resource Center provides a M.O.D.E.L. for recovery that empowers residents to facilitate their own recovery while providing resident-led systems that restore neighborhoods.

The Beacon of Hope Resource Center has been featured in a wide range of national and local media. These stories warm our hearts as we continue to help revitalize neighborhoods.